Ornament Panel with Mars, God of Battles
c. 1507
Engraving on ivory laid paper
26.4 × 12.8 cm (10.4 × 5 in)
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● On view now — Gallery 204
Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · verified July 2026
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FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG
This ornamental image consisting of loosely connected motifs is part of a series of four grotteschi . The grotesque style became popular in Rome in the late 15th century. Its name comes from the word grotto , used to describe the wall decorations on the Golden House of the Roman emperor Nero, which had only recently been rediscovered underground. This work combines symbols of warfare and triumph. Mars, the Roman god of war, is crowned with wreaths by winged Victories. Captives, armor, and satyrs also decorate the sheet.
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